I Have Cool FriendsThu, 25 Apr 2019 08:11:37 +0000Tue, 07 May 2019 17:53:39 +0000Libsyn WebEngine 2.0http://ihavecoolfriends.libsyn.com/website
enhttp://ihavecoolfriends.libsyn.com/websiteSNPeszek@gmail.com (SNPeszek@gmail.com)http://static.libsyn.com/p/assets/b/f/9/9/bf996ffba5cf2ad8/CF-CoverArt-Dec28-FINAL.jpgI Have Cool FriendsSamantha Peszekathlete,athletics,beamqueen,bqbc,coaches,collegerecruiting,gymnast,gymnastics,inspiration,inspire,motivate,motivation,ncaa,nutrition,olympics,parents,sportspsychologistnoSNPeszek@gmail.comepisodicS2 E017 John Roethlisberger - 2019 NCAA Championship2019 NCAA Championship Recap with John RoethlisbergerThu, 25 Apr 2019 08:11:37 +0000Sam welcomes to the podcast decorated Olympic gymnast and former member of the University of Minnesota men’s gymnastics team, John Roethlisberger. In addition to being a three-time Olympian, John is a four-time U.S, National all-around champion and a four-time U.S. National pommel horse champion. He also won back-to-back American Cup titles in 2995 and 1996 and was named Sportsperson of the Year six times throughout his illustrious career. In this episode, Sam and John break down the performances of the Four on the Floor: Denver, UCLA, LSU and Oklahoma. They share their thoughts on scoring, individual champions, and the first year of the new postseason format. Finally, Sam and John discuss the retirements of two gymnastics legends, UCLA Head Coach Miss Val and Utah Head Coach Megan Marsden.

]]>Sam welcomes to the podcast decorated Olympic gymnast and former member of the University of Minnesota men’s gymnastics team, John Roethlisberger. In addition to being a three-time Olympian, John is a four-time U.S, National all-around champion and a four-time U.S. National pommel horse champion. He also won back-to-back American Cup titles in 2995 and 1996 and was named Sportsperson of the Year six times throughout his illustrious career. In this episode, Sam and John break down the performances of the Four on the Floor: Denver, UCLA, LSU and Oklahoma. They share their thoughts on scoring, individual champions, and the first year of the new postseason format. Finally, Sam and John discuss the retirements of two gymnastics legends, UCLA Head Coach Miss Val and Utah Head Coach Megan Marsden.

]]>01:36:44noSam welcomes to the podcast decorated Olympic gymnast and former member of the University of Minnesota men’s gymnastics team, John Roethlisberger. In addition to being a three-time Olympian, John is a four-time U.S, National all-around champion and a four-time U.S. National pommel horse champion. He also won back-to-back American Cup titles in 2995 and 1996 and was named Sportsperson of the Year six times throughout his illustrious career. 217fullJohn RoethlisbergerS2 E016 Evan Heiter - 2019 NCAA Preview with Data & Drama2019 NCAA Preview with Data & Drama with Evan HeiterThu, 18 Apr 2019 07:44:45 +0000Sam welcomes to the podcast former University of Michigan gymnast Evan Heiter. Evan was also Sam’s co-host for the USAG Webcast for multiple years and is a huge NCAA gymnastics super fan. In this episode, Sam and Evan break down team performances from Regionals and look ahead to both upcoming Semi-Finals. They identify the secret weapons, keys to victory and storylines to watch for each team. Finally, Sam and Evan give their predictions on which teams they believe will be the Four on the Floor.

]]>Sam welcomes to the podcast former University of Michigan gymnast Evan Heiter. Evan was also Sam’s co-host for the USAG Webcast for multiple years and is a huge NCAA gymnastics super fan. In this episode, Sam and Evan break down team performances from Regionals and look ahead to both upcoming Semi-Finals. They identify the secret weapons, keys to victory and storylines to watch for each team. Finally, Sam and Evan give their predictions on which teams they believe will be the Four on the Floor.

]]>01:34:27noSam welcomes to the podcast former University of Michigan gymnast Evan Heiter. Evan was also Sam’s co-host for the USAG Webcast for multiple years and is a huge NCAA gymnastics super fan. In this episode, Sam and Evan break down team performances from Regionals and look ahead to both upcoming Semi-Finals. They identify the secret weapons, keys to victory and storylines to watch for each team. Finally, Sam and Evan give their predictions on which teams they believe will be the Four on the Floor. 216fullEvan HeiterS2 015 Tanya Chaplin - Don’t Call Them an UnderdogDon’t Call Them an Underdog with Tanya ChaplinThu, 11 Apr 2019 07:19:39 +0000Sam welcomes to the podcast Oregon State University women’s gymnastics head coach, Tanya Chaplin. Tanya’s experience in the gymnastics world is quite extensive. As an athlete competing at UCLA, she was a six-time All-American and a two-time PAC-10 Gymnast of the Year winner. She also competed in the 1983 World Championships in Budapest and competed in the 1984 Olympic trials. Over the course of her twenty-two year coaching career, she has earned PAC-12 Conference Coach of the Year five times. In this episode, Tanya discusses her team’s accomplishments this season as they prepare to compete at Nationals. She shares her coaching insights on mindset, motivation and success. Finally, Tanya details how she is planning for the continued success of her gymnastics program.

]]>Sam welcomes to the podcast Oregon State University women’s gymnastics head coach, Tanya Chaplin. Tanya’s experience in the gymnastics world is quite extensive. As an athlete competing at UCLA, she was a six-time All-American and a two-time PAC-10 Gymnast of the Year winner. She also competed in the 1983 World Championships in Budapest and competed in the 1984 Olympic trials. Over the course of her twenty-two year coaching career, she has earned PAC-12 Conference Coach of the Year five times. In this episode, Tanya discusses her team’s accomplishments this season as they prepare to compete at Nationals. She shares her coaching insights on mindset, motivation and success. Finally, Tanya details how she is planning for the continued success of her gymnastics program.

]]>01:08:06noSam welcomes to the podcast Oregon State University women’s gymnastics head coach, Tanya Chaplin. Tanya’s experience in the gymnastics world is quite extensive. As an athlete competing at UCLA, she was a six-time All-American and a two-time PAC-10 Gymnast of the Year winner. She also competed in the 1983 World Championships in Budapest and competed in the 1984 Olympic trials. Over the course of her twenty-two year coaching career, she has earned PAC-12 Conference Coach of the Year five times. 215fullTanya ChaplinS2 014 Norah Flatley & Margzetta Frazier - Ohh to be a Freshman at UCLAOhh to be a Freshman at UCLA with Norah Flatley & Margzetta FrazierThu, 04 Apr 2019 07:15:00 +0000Sam welcomes to the podcast not one but two cool friends, Norah Flatley and Margzetta Frazier. They are both former national team members, competing across the country and internationally for Team USA. Additionally, they are both freshmen at UCLA and are crushing it for the Bruins this season! In this episode, Norah and Margzetta talk about their shared experiences with Elite gymnastics, balancing academics and athletics, and their plans for the remainder of their collegiate careers.

]]>Sam welcomes to the podcast not one but two cool friends, Norah Flatley and Margzetta Frazier. They are both former national team members, competing across the country and internationally for Team USA. Additionally, they are both freshmen at UCLA and are crushing it for the Bruins this season! In this episode, Norah and Margzetta talk about their shared experiences with Elite gymnastics, balancing academics and athletics, and their plans for the remainder of their collegiate careers.

]]>59:22noSam welcomes to the podcast not one but two cool friends, Norah Flatley and Margzetta Frazier. They are both former national team members, competing across the country and internationally for Team USA. Additionally, they are both freshmen at UCLA and are crushing it for the Bruins this season! In this episode, Norah and Margzetta talk about their shared experiences with Elite gymnastics, balancing academics and athletics, and their plans for the remainder of their collegiate careers. 214fullS2 013 Olivia Karas - Win the DayWin the Day with Olivia KarasThu, 28 Mar 2019 11:43:12 +0000Sam welcomes Olivia Karas to the podcast. She is currently a senior at the University of Michigan where she contributed to their 2019 Big Ten Championship. Olivia was named the Big Ten Freshman of the Year in 2016 and she has scored a 9.925 or higher on every single event, so far, of her career. In this episode, Sam and Olivia talk all about the peaks and valleys of Olivia’s collegiate career, from a devastating Achilles injury to competing in the Flip for Chip memorial meet. They preview the 2019 NCAA Women’s Gymnastics Regionals, which will be held in Ann Arbor, Michigan this year. Finally, Olivia shares her fond memories of attending the University of Michigan as well as her plans for after graduation.

]]>Sam welcomes Olivia Karas to the podcast. She is currently a senior at the University of Michigan where she contributed to their 2019 Big Ten Championship. Olivia was named the Big Ten Freshman of the Year in 2016 and she has scored a 9.925 or higher on every single event, so far, of her career. In this episode, Sam and Olivia talk all about the peaks and valleys of Olivia’s collegiate career, from a devastating Achilles injury to competing in the Flip for Chip memorial meet. They preview the 2019 NCAA Women’s Gymnastics Regionals, which will be held in Ann Arbor, Michigan this year. Finally, Olivia shares her fond memories of attending the University of Michigan as well as her plans for after graduation.

]]>00noSam welcomes Olivia Karas to the podcast. She is currently a senior at the University of Michigan where she contributed to their 2019 Big Ten Championship. Olivia was named the Big Ten Freshman of the Year in 2016 and she has scored a 9.925 or higher on every single event, so far, of her career. In this episode, Sam and Olivia talk all about the peaks and valleys of Olivia’s collegiate career, from a devastating Achilles injury to competing in the Flip for Chip memorial meet. 213fullOlivia KarasS2 012 Ariana Berlin Rotstein & Danusia Francis - Celebrating the Legacy of Miss ValCelebrating the Legacy of Miss Val with Ariana Berlin Rotstein & Danusia FrancisThu, 21 Mar 2019 09:36:41 +0000It was alumni weekend at UCLA and Sam has two very special guests on the podcast to celebrate. First, gymnast, dancer and film actor Ariana Berlin Rotstein joins the show to discuss the flash mob sendoff she and the other UCLA alumni gave to Miss Val at her last meet as Head Coach. Next, international gymnast, Danusia Francis shares her favorite memories of Miss Val and discusses her plans to compete and qualify for the 2020 Olympics. Both Ariana and Danusia talk about their experiences competing for UCLA and give their predictions for which teams with be the Four on the Floor. It comes as no shock that both picked the Bruins to represent and compete for a championship!

]]>It was alumni weekend at UCLA and Sam has two very special guests on the podcast to celebrate. First, gymnast, dancer and film actor Ariana Berlin Rotstein joins the show to discuss the flash mob sendoff she and the other UCLA alumni gave to Miss Val at her last meet as Head Coach. Next, international gymnast, Danusia Francis shares her favorite memories of Miss Val and discusses her plans to compete and qualify for the 2020 Olympics. Both Ariana and Danusia talk about their experiences competing for UCLA and give their predictions for which teams with be the Four on the Floor. It comes as no shock that both picked the Bruins to represent and compete for a championship!

]]>01:23:21noIt was alumni weekend at UCLA and Sam has two very special guests on the podcast to celebrate. First, gymnast, dancer and film actor Ariana Berlin Rotstein joins the show to discuss the flash mob sendoff she and the other UCLA alumni gave to Miss Val at her last meet as Head Coach. Next, international gymnast, Danusia Francis shares her favorite memories of Miss Val and discusses her plans to compete and qualify for the 2020 Olympics. 212fullS2 011 McKenna Kelley - Redemption, Perfection, and the Possibility For MoreMcKenna Kelley - Redemption, Perfection, and the Possibility For MoreThu, 14 Mar 2019 07:05:00 +0000Sam welcomes McKenna Kelley to the podcast. McKenna is currently a senior at Louisiana State University (LSU) where she recently scored a perfect ten competing in her latest meet. In this episode, Sam and McKenna talk about McKenna’s collegiate gymnastics career, from overcoming a devastating Achilles injury to the possibility of competing in a fifth year. They discuss their thoughts on the new postseason format and their predictions for which teams with be the final Four on the Floor. Finally, McKenna shares her dream of becoming a motivational speaker and writer after graduating college.

]]>Sam welcomes McKenna Kelley to the podcast. McKenna is currently a senior at Louisiana State University (LSU) where she recently scored a perfect ten competing in her latest meet. In this episode, Sam and McKenna talk about McKenna’s collegiate gymnastics career, from overcoming a devastating Achilles injury to the possibility of competing in a fifth year. They discuss their thoughts on the new postseason format and their predictions for which teams with be the final Four on the Floor. Finally, McKenna shares her dream of becoming a motivational speaker and writer after graduating college.

]]>01:07:03noSam welcomes McKenna Kelley to the podcast. McKenna is currently a senior at Louisiana State University (LSU) where she recently scored a perfect ten competing in her latest meet. In this episode, Sam and McKenna talk about McKenna’s collegiate gymnastics career, from overcoming a devastating Achilles injury to the possibility of competing in a fifth year.211fullMcKenna KelleyS2 010 Dana Duckworth - You Can’t Eat an Elephant in One BiteYou Can’t Eat an Elephant in One Bite with Dana DuckworthThu, 07 Mar 2019 16:23:20 +0000Sam welcomes head coach of the women’s gymnastics team at the University of Alabama, Dana Duckworth. Dana’s relationship with Alabama has spanned over two decades. She was a former student athlete and worked under Sarah Patterson as an assistant coach for the women’s gymnastics team for fifteen years. As an athlete, Dana earned five All-American accolades and won the individual SEC and NCAA national titles in balance beam in 1992 and 1993. She also aided the university in winning a National Championship in 1991.

In this episode, Dana breaks down Alabama’s latest meet and her team’s individual performances against their bitter rivals, Auburn. She discusses the ways in which she experiments with different routines and lineups in order to get the best out of her athletes. Dana also brings awareness to the Collegiate Gymnastics Growth Initiative, an organization that raises funds to promote and support women’s collegiate gymnastics programs so that more women may have the opportunity to compete at the highest level. Dana is a no-nonsense coach who believes her team can compete for a national title this year and in years to come.

]]>Sam welcomes head coach of the women’s gymnastics team at the University of Alabama, Dana Duckworth. Dana’s relationship with Alabama has spanned over two decades. She was a former student athlete and worked under Sarah Patterson as an assistant coach for the women’s gymnastics team for fifteen years. As an athlete, Dana earned five All-American accolades and won the individual SEC and NCAA national titles in balance beam in 1992 and 1993. She also aided the university in winning a National Championship in 1991.

In this episode, Dana breaks down Alabama’s latest meet and her team’s individual performances against their bitter rivals, Auburn. She discusses the ways in which she experiments with different routines and lineups in order to get the best out of her athletes. Dana also brings awareness to the Collegiate Gymnastics Growth Initiative, an organization that raises funds to promote and support women’s collegiate gymnastics programs so that more women may have the opportunity to compete at the highest level. Dana is a no-nonsense coach who believes her team can compete for a national title this year and in years to come.

]]>01:21:13noSam welcomes head coach of the women’s gymnastics team at the University of Alabama, Dana Duckworth. Dana’s relationship with Alabama has spanned over two decades. She was a former student athlete and worked under Sarah Patterson as an assistant coach for the women’s gymnastics team for fifteen years.210fullDana DuckworthS2 009 Kyla Ross - It's Juuuuust Gymnastics & a Little UCLA MagicIt's Juuuuust Gymnastics & a Little UCLA Magic with Kyla RossThu, 28 Feb 2019 08:15:00 +0000Sam welcomes Kyla Ross, the first female gymnast ever to win Olympic, World, and NCAA Championship gold medals. Kyla is a 2012 Olympic gold medalist, 2014 World Championship gold medalist, and 2018 NCAA team champion. In addition, she is an eleven-time All-American, five-time World Championship medalist, and was the 2017 NCAA bars and beam champion. Kyla currently competes for the UCLA Bruins, and is widely considered one of the premier athletes in the sport of gymnastics.

In this episode, Sam and Kyla break down UCLA’s latest meet against the University of Utah, specifically their performance on bars. Kyla shares some insights into how she prepares prior to collegiate meets and how she got the nickname Kyla ‘Boss’ Ross. Kyla talks about the peaks and valleys of her Elite gymnastics experience. Finally, Kyla discusses her goals for the current season, which include achieving a perfect ten on floor and winning another national championship at UCLA.

]]>Sam welcomes Kyla Ross, the first female gymnast ever to win Olympic, World, and NCAA Championship gold medals. Kyla is a 2012 Olympic gold medalist, 2014 World Championship gold medalist, and 2018 NCAA team champion. In addition, she is an eleven-time All-American, five-time World Championship medalist, and was the 2017 NCAA bars and beam champion. Kyla currently competes for the UCLA Bruins, and is widely considered one of the premier athletes in the sport of gymnastics.

In this episode, Sam and Kyla break down UCLA’s latest meet against the University of Utah, specifically their performance on bars. Kyla shares some insights into how she prepares prior to collegiate meets and how she got the nickname Kyla ‘Boss’ Ross. Kyla talks about the peaks and valleys of her Elite gymnastics experience. Finally, Kyla discusses her goals for the current season, which include achieving a perfect ten on floor and winning another national championship at UCLA.

]]>01:19:51noIn this episode, Sam and Kyla break down UCLA’s latest meet against the University of Utah, specifically their performance on bars. Kyla shares some insights into how she prepares prior to collegiate meets and how she got the nickname Kyla ‘Boss’ Ross. Kyla talks about the peaks and valleys of her Elite gymnastics experience. Finally, Kyla discusses her goals for the current season, which include achieving a perfect ten on floor and winning another national championship at UCLA.29fullKyla RossS2 008 Courtney Kupets Carter - All-Around GreatnessAll-Around Greatness with Courtney Kupets CarterThu, 21 Feb 2019 15:58:29 +0000Sam welcomes 2004 Olympic silver medalist and individual bronze medalist on bars, Courtney Kupets Carter. In addition to her Olympic accolades, Courtney was a member of the 2003 gold medal-winning World Championship Team and a two-time Elite National Champion. She helped lead the University of Georgia to four National Championship titles from 2005 – 2009. Individually, she won eight SEC event championships, nine NCAA titles, and was a fifteen-time All-American. She is the only NCAA gymnast ever to win an individual championship on all four events and the all-around title. She currently holds the position of head coach of the women’s gymnastics team at the University of Georgia.

In this episode, Sam and Courtney talk about Courtney’s illustrious gymnastics career spanning Elites, collegiate, and the Olympic Games. Courtney talks about the peaks and valleys of her Olympic experience, as well as the tour she went on post-Olympics. As the head coach at her alma mater, Courtney describes the unique dynamic of working with her former collegiate coach and now current assistant coach, Suzanne Yoculan Leebern. Courtney describes her love of coaching and the great pride she feels for her athletes. She breaks down Georgia’s latest meet against the University of Kentucky and lists some of the goals she has for the remainder of the season. Courtney discusses how she effectively balances her work life with her family. As the mother of three children, Courtney certainly has her hands full. Finally, Courtney leaves the audience with advice on how they can improve each day by overcoming struggle and persevering through life’s challenges.

]]>Sam welcomes 2004 Olympic silver medalist and individual bronze medalist on bars, Courtney Kupets Carter. In addition to her Olympic accolades, Courtney was a member of the 2003 gold medal-winning World Championship Team and a two-time Elite National Champion. She helped lead the University of Georgia to four National Championship titles from 2005 – 2009. Individually, she won eight SEC event championships, nine NCAA titles, and was a fifteen-time All-American. She is the only NCAA gymnast ever to win an individual championship on all four events and the all-around title. She currently holds the position of head coach of the women’s gymnastics team at the University of Georgia.

In this episode, Sam and Courtney talk about Courtney’s illustrious gymnastics career spanning Elites, collegiate, and the Olympic Games. Courtney talks about the peaks and valleys of her Olympic experience, as well as the tour she went on post-Olympics. As the head coach at her alma mater, Courtney describes the unique dynamic of working with her former collegiate coach and now current assistant coach, Suzanne Yoculan Leebern. Courtney describes her love of coaching and the great pride she feels for her athletes. She breaks down Georgia’s latest meet against the University of Kentucky and lists some of the goals she has for the remainder of the season. Courtney discusses how she effectively balances her work life with her family. As the mother of three children, Courtney certainly has her hands full. Finally, Courtney leaves the audience with advice on how they can improve each day by overcoming struggle and persevering through life’s challenges.

]]>01:16:27noIn this episode, Sam and Courtney talk about Courtney’s illustrious gymnastics career spanning Elites, collegiate, and the Olympic Games. Courtney talks about the peaks and valleys of her Olympic experience, as well as the tour she went on post-Olympics. As the head coach at her alma mater, Courtney describes the unique dynamic of working with her former collegiate coach and now current assistant coach, Suzanne Yoculan Leebern. 28fullCourtney Kupets CarterS2 007 Trinity Thomas - More Than Meets the EyeMore Than Meets the Eye with Trinity ThomasThu, 14 Feb 2019 09:12:36 +0000Sam welcomes four-time U.S. National Team member and collegiate gymnast, Trinity Thomas. Although just seventeen, Trinity is already a supremely accomplished gymnast, having been a member of the gold-medal winning team at the 2018 Pan-American Gymnastics Championships. There she also won an individual silver medal on bars and in the all-around. She is currently competing as a freshman at the University of Florida and ranks third overall in the all-around of NCAA women’s gymnastics.

In this episode, Sam and Trinity discuss Trinity’s experience so far as a freshman on the University of Florida women’s gymnastics team. Trinity breaks down her performances at the latest meets against Auburn and Oklahoma. Sam and Trinity discuss the differences between Elite and collegiate gymnastics. Trinity describes her fellow freshmen teammates and gives out superlatives to each of the girls. We also hear about her pursuit of other sports, including track and diving. Trinity stresses that there is more to her than just gymnastics and she shows this in almost every aspect of her life. Trinity furthers this point by showcasing her singing voice! Finally, Trinity provides advice to the audience on how they can improve each day by having confidence, not worrying about what others think, and always doing your best.

]]>Sam welcomes four-time U.S. National Team member and collegiate gymnast, Trinity Thomas. Although just seventeen, Trinity is already a supremely accomplished gymnast, having been a member of the gold-medal winning team at the 2018 Pan-American Gymnastics Championships. There she also won an individual silver medal on bars and in the all-around. She is currently competing as a freshman at the University of Florida and ranks third overall in the all-around of NCAA women’s gymnastics.

In this episode, Sam and Trinity discuss Trinity’s experience so far as a freshman on the University of Florida women’s gymnastics team. Trinity breaks down her performances at the latest meets against Auburn and Oklahoma. Sam and Trinity discuss the differences between Elite and collegiate gymnastics. Trinity describes her fellow freshmen teammates and gives out superlatives to each of the girls. We also hear about her pursuit of other sports, including track and diving. Trinity stresses that there is more to her than just gymnastics and she shows this in almost every aspect of her life. Trinity furthers this point by showcasing her singing voice! Finally, Trinity provides advice to the audience on how they can improve each day by having confidence, not worrying about what others think, and always doing your best.

]]>58:19noIn this episode, Sam and Trinity discuss Trinity’s experience so far as a freshman on the University of Florida women’s gymnastics team. Trinity breaks down her performances at the latest meets against Auburn and Oklahoma. Sam and Trinity discuss the differences between Elite and collegiate gymnastics. Trinity describes her fellow freshmen teammates and gives out superlatives to each of the girls. We also hear about her pursuit of other sports, including track and diving. 27fullTrinity ThomasS2 006 Jessica Lopez - Be Present, Be Thankful, & CommunicateBe Present, Be Thankful, & Communicate with Jessica LopezThu, 07 Feb 2019 08:15:00 +0000Sam welcomes decorated gymnast, Jessica López. Jessica is an international gymnast who has represented her home country of Venezuela in three separate Olympic Games from 2008 through 2016. In 2016, she qualified for the uneven bars final, becoming the very first Venezuelan gymnast to do so. She also placed sixth in the all-around final, her country’s best all-around finish ever. She competed collegiately at the University of Denver from 2006 – 2009, earning five All-American honors across three NCAA national championship appearances. In total, she has won eighty-three individual titles during her career. Today, Jessica is a gymnastics coach at her alma mater, The University of Denver, and is mulling over the possibility of competing at a fourth Olympics!

In this episode, Sam and Jessica talk about Jessica’s incredible career as a gymnast, from the Elite and Olympic levels to the collegiate level. Jessica shares how she has managed to stay motivated throughout a career of such longevity. She also recounts the Olympic Games she competed in and the different challenges she faced in all three. She talks about her experience as a gymnast representing a smaller nation and the struggles she has faced as a result. Jessica discusses the reasons she chose to attend the University of Denver and how she acclimated to American culture and overcame language barriers along the way. Jessica talks about her career as a coach and gives insights into the progress of their current season. She talks about their ultimate goals for the season and in the coming years. Finally, Jessica gives sound advice to the audience on how they can improve each day by remaining present and thankful in every moment.

]]>Sam welcomes decorated gymnast, Jessica López. Jessica is an international gymnast who has represented her home country of Venezuela in three separate Olympic Games from 2008 through 2016. In 2016, she qualified for the uneven bars final, becoming the very first Venezuelan gymnast to do so. She also placed sixth in the all-around final, her country’s best all-around finish ever. She competed collegiately at the University of Denver from 2006 – 2009, earning five All-American honors across three NCAA national championship appearances. In total, she has won eighty-three individual titles during her career. Today, Jessica is a gymnastics coach at her alma mater, The University of Denver, and is mulling over the possibility of competing at a fourth Olympics!

In this episode, Sam and Jessica talk about Jessica’s incredible career as a gymnast, from the Elite and Olympic levels to the collegiate level. Jessica shares how she has managed to stay motivated throughout a career of such longevity. She also recounts the Olympic Games she competed in and the different challenges she faced in all three. She talks about her experience as a gymnast representing a smaller nation and the struggles she has faced as a result. Jessica discusses the reasons she chose to attend the University of Denver and how she acclimated to American culture and overcame language barriers along the way. Jessica talks about her career as a coach and gives insights into the progress of their current season. She talks about their ultimate goals for the season and in the coming years. Finally, Jessica gives sound advice to the audience on how they can improve each day by remaining present and thankful in every moment.

]]>56:46noIn this episode, Sam and Jessica talk about Jessica’s incredible career as a gymnast, from the Elite and Olympic levels to the collegiate level. Jessica shares how she has managed to stay motivated throughout a career of such longevity. She also recounts the Olympic Games she competed in and the different challenges she faced in all three. She talks about her experience as a gymnast representing a smaller nation and the struggles she has faced as a result. 26fullJessica LopezS2 005 Mykayla Skinner - Will She or Won't She...Go for 2020Will She or Won't She...Go for 2020 with Mykayla SkinnerThu, 31 Jan 2019 08:15:00 +0000Sam welcomes her close friend, Mykayla Skinner. Mykayla competed for Team USA at the 2014 and 2015 World Championships, winning a team gold both years and a bronze medal on vault in 2014. She also won nine total medals at the USA Gymnastics National Championships during her senior career. Mykayla is currently a junior at the University of Utah, where she has already won two NCAA titles, one in floor and one in vault. Mykayla has had quite the career thus far and isn’t done yet!

In this episode, Sam and Mykayla discuss what has made Mykayla such a consistent competitor in her collegiate and Elite careers. Mykayla credits her confidence and belief in herself as two of the main components of that consistency. They talk about the major differences between Elite and collegiate gymnastics, including the different training and conditioning routines and expectations for each. Mykayla talks about the 2016 Olympic trial process and her experience as an alternate. Mykayla shares the reason why she chose to attend the University of Utah and why it was the best decision for her. She talks her coaches Megan and Tom, as well as her freshman teammates. Finally, Mykayla discusses her plans post-college and her personal and professional dreams for the future.

]]>Sam welcomes her close friend, Mykayla Skinner. Mykayla competed for Team USA at the 2014 and 2015 World Championships, winning a team gold both years and a bronze medal on vault in 2014. She also won nine total medals at the USA Gymnastics National Championships during her senior career. Mykayla is currently a junior at the University of Utah, where she has already won two NCAA titles, one in floor and one in vault. Mykayla has had quite the career thus far and isn’t done yet!

In this episode, Sam and Mykayla discuss what has made Mykayla such a consistent competitor in her collegiate and Elite careers. Mykayla credits her confidence and belief in herself as two of the main components of that consistency. They talk about the major differences between Elite and collegiate gymnastics, including the different training and conditioning routines and expectations for each. Mykayla talks about the 2016 Olympic trial process and her experience as an alternate. Mykayla shares the reason why she chose to attend the University of Utah and why it was the best decision for her. She talks her coaches Megan and Tom, as well as her freshman teammates. Finally, Mykayla discusses her plans post-college and her personal and professional dreams for the future.

]]>01:08:33noIn this episode, Sam and Mykayla discuss what has made Mykayla such a consistent competitor in her collegiate and Elite careers. Mykayla credits her confidence and belief in herself as two of the main components of that consistency. They talk about the major differences between Elite and collegiate gymnastics, including the different training and conditioning routines and expectations for each. Mykayla talks about the 2016 Olympic trial process and her experience as an alternate. 25fullMykayla SkinnerS2 004 Amelia Hundley & Lexie Priessman - The Inside scoop of Florida & LSUThe Inside scoop of Florida & LSU with Amelia Hundley & Lexie PriessmanThu, 24 Jan 2019 11:24:28 +0000Sam welcomes to the podcast not one but two cool friends, Amelia Hundley and Lexie Priessman. Amelia has won a gold, silver and bronze at the 2015 Pan-American Games in Toronto, she also took home team gold medals competing for the United States at the 2012 Pacific Rim Championships and qualified for the 2016 Olympic trials. She is currently a stud competitor at the University of Florida and has scored above a 9.9 in every event this year. Lexie has been a national team member from 2010 to 2013. She won four gold medals competing at the 2011 Japan Junior International competition, and two gold medals from the 2012 Jesolo Meet. Lexie is currently a senior gymnast at LSU and scored a 9.95 on bars this past weekend at her meet.

In this episode, Sam, Amelia and Lexie recall early memories of their friendship, including their time at TOPs and Elites. Amelia and Lexie grew up attending multiple training camps together and looked up to Sam as a mentor and role model. As Amelia and Lexie grew up, they decided to attend different colleges and they speak to their reasoning behind that decision. They talk about the coaches they have had throughout their gymnastics careers from Elites to the collegiate level. Both were lucky to have coaches who were supportive and motivating forces in their lives. They talk about the perceived reputations of both Florida and LSU and talk about the freshman class of each school, respectively. They share their favorite moments from competition growing up, including their first international assignment together in Japan. They also discuss their plans to stay in the field of gymnastics after college. Amelia hopes to one day open her own gym and Lexie would like to enter the health and wellness field of business. Finally, Amelia and Lexie give some sage advice to young gymnasts. They stress the importance of work ethic, perseverance, perspective and passion for the sport.

]]>Sam welcomes to the podcast not one but two cool friends, Amelia Hundley and Lexie Priessman. Amelia has won a gold, silver and bronze at the 2015 Pan-American Games in Toronto, she also took home team gold medals competing for the United States at the 2012 Pacific Rim Championships and qualified for the 2016 Olympic trials. She is currently a stud competitor at the University of Florida and has scored above a 9.9 in every event this year. Lexie has been a national team member from 2010 to 2013. She won four gold medals competing at the 2011 Japan Junior International competition, and two gold medals from the 2012 Jesolo Meet. Lexie is currently a senior gymnast at LSU and scored a 9.95 on bars this past weekend at her meet.

In this episode, Sam, Amelia and Lexie recall early memories of their friendship, including their time at TOPs and Elites. Amelia and Lexie grew up attending multiple training camps together and looked up to Sam as a mentor and role model. As Amelia and Lexie grew up, they decided to attend different colleges and they speak to their reasoning behind that decision. They talk about the coaches they have had throughout their gymnastics careers from Elites to the collegiate level. Both were lucky to have coaches who were supportive and motivating forces in their lives. They talk about the perceived reputations of both Florida and LSU and talk about the freshman class of each school, respectively. They share their favorite moments from competition growing up, including their first international assignment together in Japan. They also discuss their plans to stay in the field of gymnastics after college. Amelia hopes to one day open her own gym and Lexie would like to enter the health and wellness field of business. Finally, Amelia and Lexie give some sage advice to young gymnasts. They stress the importance of work ethic, perseverance, perspective and passion for the sport.

]]>01:28:51noIn this episode, Sam, Amelia and Lexie recall early memories of their friendship, including their time at TOPs and Elites. Amelia and Lexie grew up attending multiple training camps together and looked up to Sam as a mentor and role model. As Amelia and Lexie grew up, they decided to attend different colleges and they speak to their reasoning behind that decision. They talk about the coaches they have had throughout their gymnastics careers from Elites to the collegiate level. 24fullAmelia Hundley and Lexie PriessmanS2 003 Katelyn Ohashi - Using Gymnastics Experience and a VIRAL Platform to Change the WorldUsing Gymnastics Experience and a VIRAL Platform to Change the World with Katelyn OhashiThu, 17 Jan 2019 08:15:00 +0000Sam welcomes to the podcast collegiate gymnast, Katelyn Ohashi. Katelyn’s gymnastics resume is as impressive as it is extensive. She was a four-time member of USA Gymnastics’ Junior National Team, the 2011 junior national champion and 2013 American Cup champion. Katelyn is also a six-time All-American at UCLA where she helped her team win the 2018 NCAA championship title last year. In that same national championship run, Katelyn was the co-champion on floor exercise. She recently scored a perfect ten at the 2019 Collegiate Challenge and her floor routine was so impressive that it has gone viral with over six million views on YouTube alone!

In this episode, Sam and Katelyn recall early memories of their friendship, including a recent trip they took to Alaska. They bond over their mutual love for gymnastics, UCLA and Miss Val. Katelyn discusses her latest floor routine, where she score a perfect ten, and how she feels about being a viral sensation. She talks about some of the projects she has been working on, including a partnership with The Players’ Tribune, a digital platform where athletes can publish their stories. Katelyn opens up about the importance of maintaining a positive body image outlook as a gymnast. She shares the struggles she has faced in finding her own voice and the joy she now feels having found it. Finally, Katelyn discusses her plans for the future. She hopes to become a published author of poetry, break into the entertainment industry, and grow her platform to help speak out against domestic violence.

]]>Sam welcomes to the podcast collegiate gymnast, Katelyn Ohashi. Katelyn’s gymnastics resume is as impressive as it is extensive. She was a four-time member of USA Gymnastics’ Junior National Team, the 2011 junior national champion and 2013 American Cup champion. Katelyn is also a six-time All-American at UCLA where she helped her team win the 2018 NCAA championship title last year. In that same national championship run, Katelyn was the co-champion on floor exercise. She recently scored a perfect ten at the 2019 Collegiate Challenge and her floor routine was so impressive that it has gone viral with over six million views on YouTube alone!

In this episode, Sam and Katelyn recall early memories of their friendship, including a recent trip they took to Alaska. They bond over their mutual love for gymnastics, UCLA and Miss Val. Katelyn discusses her latest floor routine, where she score a perfect ten, and how she feels about being a viral sensation. She talks about some of the projects she has been working on, including a partnership with The Players’ Tribune, a digital platform where athletes can publish their stories. Katelyn opens up about the importance of maintaining a positive body image outlook as a gymnast. She shares the struggles she has faced in finding her own voice and the joy she now feels having found it. Finally, Katelyn discusses her plans for the future. She hopes to become a published author of poetry, break into the entertainment industry, and grow her platform to help speak out against domestic violence.

]]>01:07:13noSam welcomes to the podcast collegiate gymnast, Katelyn Ohashi. Katelyn’s gymnastics resume is as impressive as it is extensive. She was a four-time member of USA Gymnastics’ Junior National Team, the 2011 junior national champion and 2013 American Cup champion. Katelyn is also a six-time All-American at UCLA where she helped her team win the 2018 NCAA championship title last year. In that same national championship run, Katelyn was the co-champion on floor exercise. 23fullKatelyn OhashiS2 002 - Maggie Nichols Shares Her NCAA SecretsMaggie Nichols Shares Her NCAA SecretsThu, 10 Jan 2019 08:15:00 +0000Welcome back to Season 2 of the I Have Cool Friends podcast! Sam welcomes to the podcast collegiate gymnast, Maggie Nichols. Maggie is a junior at the University of Oklahoma and has already accomplished so much in her gymnastics career. Maggie won a gold medal with the American team and an individual bronze medal on floor exercise at the 2015 World Championships. Maggie has also earned five NCAA championship titles, including one team and four individual and she is the only gymnast in Oklahoma’s history to achieve a perfect 10 on all four events. In addition to these incredible feats, she received the first and only perfect 10 from the first meet of the 2019 NCAA season! Maggie is well-known for her motivational messages on social media and uplifting personality, which have contributed to her being an amazing teammate and friend.

In this episode, Sam and Maggie talk all about college gymnastics and its importance to the overall sport today. From the perspective of two gymnasts who trained at both the Elite and collegiate levels, Maggie and Sam both understand the hard work and dedication necessary to achieve gymnastics greatness. Maggie walks Sam through her time at the University of Oklahoma, from their emotional second place finish in last year’s NCAA Championship to the new crop of freshman gymnasts they have this year. Maggie describes how she transitioned to the college scene with such grace and flawlessness. She talks about her coaches and the messages they relay to the team before and after every meet. Finally, Maggie gives her predictions of which teams she believes will be the Final Four on the Floor and shares one piece of advice that college gymnasts can utilize to get better every day.

]]>Welcome back to Season 2 of the I Have Cool Friends podcast! Sam welcomes to the podcast collegiate gymnast, Maggie Nichols. Maggie is a junior at the University of Oklahoma and has already accomplished so much in her gymnastics career. Maggie won a gold medal with the American team and an individual bronze medal on floor exercise at the 2015 World Championships. Maggie has also earned five NCAA championship titles, including one team and four individual and she is the only gymnast in Oklahoma’s history to achieve a perfect 10 on all four events. In addition to these incredible feats, she received the first and only perfect 10 from the first meet of the 2019 NCAA season! Maggie is well-known for her motivational messages on social media and uplifting personality, which have contributed to her being an amazing teammate and friend.

In this episode, Sam and Maggie talk all about college gymnastics and its importance to the overall sport today. From the perspective of two gymnasts who trained at both the Elite and collegiate levels, Maggie and Sam both understand the hard work and dedication necessary to achieve gymnastics greatness. Maggie walks Sam through her time at the University of Oklahoma, from their emotional second place finish in last year’s NCAA Championship to the new crop of freshman gymnasts they have this year. Maggie describes how she transitioned to the college scene with such grace and flawlessness. She talks about her coaches and the messages they relay to the team before and after every meet. Finally, Maggie gives her predictions of which teams she believes will be the Final Four on the Floor and shares one piece of advice that college gymnasts can utilize to get better every day.

]]>51:45noWelcome back to Season 2 of the I Have Cool Friends podcast! Sam welcomes to the podcast collegiate gymnast, Maggie Nichols. Maggie is a junior at the University of Oklahoma and has already accomplished so much in her gymnastics career. Maggie won a gold medal with the American team and an individual bronze medal on floor exercise at the 2015 World Championships. 22fullMaggie NicholsS2 001 Bridget Sloan - Previewing the 2019 NCAA Gymnastics SeasonPreviewing the 2019 NCAA Gymnastics Season with Bridget SloanThu, 03 Jan 2019 08:15:00 +0000Welcome to Season 2 of the I Have Cool Friends Podcast! 2018 was such a special year, as Sam details in the opening of this episode. The podcast has already surpassed 100,000 downloads spanning 100 different countries and is the number one podcast in the college and high school sports category! It recently broke into and top 100 in the overall general sports category, as well. Today, Sam welcomes back recurring guest, Bridget Sloan. Bridget was one of Sam’s former teammates from the 2008 Olympics and is currently an analyst for ESPN’s SEC Network. Bridget’s gymnastics accomplishments include nine-time NCAA champion with The University of Florida, 2008 Olympic silver medalist, and 2009 World Champion in the all-around.

In this episode, Sam and Bridget recap the 2018 NCAA Gymnastics season from UCLA’s dominant season, to individual champions, including Maggie Nichols, Mykayla Skinner, and Christine Peng-Peng Lee. Bridget and Sam talk about their roles as gymnastics analysts for the SEC and PAC12 networks, respectively. They discuss the state of collegiate gymnastics and the new postseason format for the 2019 season. Sam and Bridget also break down the top twelve teams from this past season and analyze their potential for the upcoming season. Everything from recruiting classes to players graduated, to new coaches is discussed in this jam-packed episode. Finally, Bridget shares one piece of advice that college gymnasts can utilize to get better every day.

]]>Welcome to Season 2 of the I Have Cool Friends Podcast! 2018 was such a special year, as Sam details in the opening of this episode. The podcast has already surpassed 100,000 downloads spanning 100 different countries and is the number one podcast in the college and high school sports category! It recently broke into and top 100 in the overall general sports category, as well. Today, Sam welcomes back recurring guest, Bridget Sloan. Bridget was one of Sam’s former teammates from the 2008 Olympics and is currently an analyst for ESPN’s SEC Network. Bridget’s gymnastics accomplishments include nine-time NCAA champion with The University of Florida, 2008 Olympic silver medalist, and 2009 World Champion in the all-around.

In this episode, Sam and Bridget recap the 2018 NCAA Gymnastics season from UCLA’s dominant season, to individual champions, including Maggie Nichols, Mykayla Skinner, and Christine Peng-Peng Lee. Bridget and Sam talk about their roles as gymnastics analysts for the SEC and PAC12 networks, respectively. They discuss the state of collegiate gymnastics and the new postseason format for the 2019 season. Sam and Bridget also break down the top twelve teams from this past season and analyze their potential for the upcoming season. Everything from recruiting classes to players graduated, to new coaches is discussed in this jam-packed episode. Finally, Bridget shares one piece of advice that college gymnasts can utilize to get better every day.

]]>01:30:51noWelcome to Season 2 of the I Have Cool Friends Podcast! 2018 was such a special year, as Sam details in the opening of this episode. The podcast has already surpassed 100,000 downloads spanning 100 different countries and is the number one podcast in the college and high school sports category! It recently broke into and top 100 in the overall general sports category, as well. Today, Sam welcomes back recurring guest, Bridget Sloan. 21fullBridget SloanBonus Episode 4 - Bridget Sloan - No RegretsNo Regrets with Bridget SloanWed, 12 Dec 2018 08:15:00 +0000Sam welcomes to the podcast close friend and former 2008 Olympic teammate, Bridget Sloan. Saving the best for last, Bridget is the final guest on Sam’s exclusive bonus series where she has interviewed all members of her 2008 Olympic team. Bridget’s gymnastics accomplishments include nine-time NCAA champion with the University of Florida, 2008 Olympic silver medalist, and 2009 World Champion in the all-around. Since retiring from gymnastics, Bridget has been an active member of the gymnastics community, serving as an advocate and analyst for the sport. Bridget currently lives in Orlando, Florida, and has taken up CrossFit as a hobby, even though she never thought she would!

In this episode, Sam and Bridget recall their favorite memories from the 2008 Olympics, including visiting the Great Wall of China and an awkward photo shoot with navy blue cargo pants. As the youngest member of the 2008 Olympic team, Bridget had a different journey when she arrived back from Beijing. She continued her distinguished gymnastics career at the University of Florida where she contributed to three consecutive national titles. Sam and Bridget also touch on the recent scandals that have sent shockwaves through the sport of gymnastics and how it impacted Bridget on a personal level. Finally, Sam and Bridget share a few things they are thankful for this year and give advice to aspiring gymnasts everywhere.

]]>Sam welcomes to the podcast close friend and former 2008 Olympic teammate, Bridget Sloan. Saving the best for last, Bridget is the final guest on Sam’s exclusive bonus series where she has interviewed all members of her 2008 Olympic team. Bridget’s gymnastics accomplishments include nine-time NCAA champion with the University of Florida, 2008 Olympic silver medalist, and 2009 World Champion in the all-around. Since retiring from gymnastics, Bridget has been an active member of the gymnastics community, serving as an advocate and analyst for the sport. Bridget currently lives in Orlando, Florida, and has taken up CrossFit as a hobby, even though she never thought she would!

In this episode, Sam and Bridget recall their favorite memories from the 2008 Olympics, including visiting the Great Wall of China and an awkward photo shoot with navy blue cargo pants. As the youngest member of the 2008 Olympic team, Bridget had a different journey when she arrived back from Beijing. She continued her distinguished gymnastics career at the University of Florida where she contributed to three consecutive national titles. Sam and Bridget also touch on the recent scandals that have sent shockwaves through the sport of gymnastics and how it impacted Bridget on a personal level. Finally, Sam and Bridget share a few things they are thankful for this year and give advice to aspiring gymnasts everywhere.

]]>01:46:40noSam welcomes to the podcast close friend and former 2008 Olympic teammate, Bridget Sloan. Saving the best for last, Bridget is the final guest on Sam’s exclusive bonus series where she has interviewed all members of her 2008 Olympic team. Bridget’s gymnastics accomplishments include nine-time NCAA champion with the University of Florida, 2008 Olympic silver medalist, and 2009 World Champion in the all-around. 117fullBridget SloanBonus Episode 3 - Nastia Liukin - The Year of New BeginningsThe Year of New Beginnings with Nastia LiukinWed, 14 Nov 2018 08:15:00 +0000Sam welcomes to the podcast close friend and former 2008 Olympic and 2007 World Championship teammate, Nastia Liukin. Nastia’s gymnastics accomplishments include the 2008 Olympic all-around champion, five-time Olympic medalist, the 2005 and 2007 world champion on the balance beam, and the 2005 world champion on uneven bars. She is also a four-time, all-around U.S. national champion, winning twice as a junior and twice as a senior. Since retiring from gymnastics, Nastia has continued to support and promote the sport of gymnastics as an analyst, advocate, and entrepreneur. She was part of the effort that saw Los Angeles awarded the 2028 Olympic Games and is currently involved in projects aimed to inspire the next generation of females.

In this episode, Sam and Nastia recall early memories of their friendship at the Pan Am, World Championship and Olympic Games. Nastia opens up on what it was like growing up in the spotlight as the daughter of two famed Russian gymnasts. Sam and Nastia talk about the current uncertainty surrounding USA Gymnastics and the characteristics they would like to see in the new CEO and governing body. Among these characteristics are transparency, communication and effective leadership. They also suggest actions that former USA gymnasts can take to help the sport recover from the recent scandals it has suffered. Finally, Nastia stresses the importance of educating and training young gymnasts not only in their sport, but also in life skills that will serve them well long after retirement.

]]>Sam welcomes to the podcast close friend and former 2008 Olympic and 2007 World Championship teammate, Nastia Liukin. Nastia’s gymnastics accomplishments include the 2008 Olympic all-around champion, five-time Olympic medalist, the 2005 and 2007 world champion on the balance beam, and the 2005 world champion on uneven bars. She is also a four-time, all-around U.S. national champion, winning twice as a junior and twice as a senior. Since retiring from gymnastics, Nastia has continued to support and promote the sport of gymnastics as an analyst, advocate, and entrepreneur. She was part of the effort that saw Los Angeles awarded the 2028 Olympic Games and is currently involved in projects aimed to inspire the next generation of females.

In this episode, Sam and Nastia recall early memories of their friendship at the Pan Am, World Championship and Olympic Games. Nastia opens up on what it was like growing up in the spotlight as the daughter of two famed Russian gymnasts. Sam and Nastia talk about the current uncertainty surrounding USA Gymnastics and the characteristics they would like to see in the new CEO and governing body. Among these characteristics are transparency, communication and effective leadership. They also suggest actions that former USA gymnasts can take to help the sport recover from the recent scandals it has suffered. Finally, Nastia stresses the importance of educating and training young gymnasts not only in their sport, but also in life skills that will serve them well long after retirement.

]]>01:20:29noSam welcomes to the podcast close friend and former 2008 Olympic and 2007 World Championship teammate, Nastia Liukin. Nastia’s gymnastics accomplishments include the 2008 Olympic all-around champion, five-time Olympic medalist, the 2005 and 2007 world champion on the balance beam, and the 2005 world champion on uneven bars. She is also a four-time, all-around U.S. national champion, winning twice as a junior and twice as a senior.116fullNastia LiukinBonus Episode 2 - Chellsie Memmel - Transparency and the Future of USA GymnasticsTransparency and the Future of USA Gymnastics with Chellsie MemmelWed, 10 Oct 2018 07:15:00 +0000Sam welcomes to the podcast close friend and former 2008 Olympic teammate, Chellsie Memmel. Chellsie’s gymnastics accomplishments include being the 2003 world champion on the uneven bars and the 2005 world all-around champion; just the third American woman in history to win that title. She has seven World Championship and Olympic medals and is tied with Shawn Johnson as the seventh most decorated US female gymnast. She is so skilled at gymnastics that she even has a floor exercise move named after her, the Memmel Turn. Since retiring from gymnastics, Chellsie has continued to support and promote the sport of gymnastics as a coach, judge, and advocate.

In this episode, Sam and Chellsie recall early memories of their friendship. They talk about the controversial 2008 Olympic selection process and how it made them feel. Chellsie chronicles her injury history and the emotional and physical toll the recovery and training process took on her. They discuss the peaks and valleys they encountered along the way to becoming Olympic medalists, including meeting Michael Phelps! Sam and Chellsie have a meaningful and reflective conversation on the state of gymnastics and the actions they believe need to be taken by the governing body of USA Gymnastics to address these issues. Finally, Chellsie discusses the fulfillment and joy she gets out of coaching gymnastics and shares her biggest life lesson she learned as an athlete.

]]>Sam welcomes to the podcast close friend and former 2008 Olympic teammate, Chellsie Memmel. Chellsie’s gymnastics accomplishments include being the 2003 world champion on the uneven bars and the 2005 world all-around champion; just the third American woman in history to win that title. She has seven World Championship and Olympic medals and is tied with Shawn Johnson as the seventh most decorated US female gymnast. She is so skilled at gymnastics that she even has a floor exercise move named after her, the Memmel Turn. Since retiring from gymnastics, Chellsie has continued to support and promote the sport of gymnastics as a coach, judge, and advocate.

In this episode, Sam and Chellsie recall early memories of their friendship. They talk about the controversial 2008 Olympic selection process and how it made them feel. Chellsie chronicles her injury history and the emotional and physical toll the recovery and training process took on her. They discuss the peaks and valleys they encountered along the way to becoming Olympic medalists, including meeting Michael Phelps! Sam and Chellsie have a meaningful and reflective conversation on the state of gymnastics and the actions they believe need to be taken by the governing body of USA Gymnastics to address these issues. Finally, Chellsie discusses the fulfillment and joy she gets out of coaching gymnastics and shares her biggest life lesson she learned as an athlete.

]]>01:00:36noSam welcomes to the podcast close friend and former 2008 Olympic teammate, Chellsie Memmel. Chellsie’s gymnastics accomplishments include being the 2003 world champion on the uneven bars and the 2005 world all-around champion; just the third American woman in history to win that title. She has seven World Championship and Olympic medals and is tied with Shawn Johnson as the seventh most decorated US female gymnast. 115fullChellsie MemmelBonus Episode 1 - Alicia Sacramone Quinn - Gymnasts Aren’t Like a Fine WineGymnasts Aren’t Like a Fine Wine with Alicia Sacramone QuinnWed, 12 Sep 2018 07:15:00 +0000Sam welcomes to the podcast former Olympic teammate and close friend, Alicia Sacramone Quinn. Alicia is a former American gymnast who is also the second-most decorated American gymnast in World Championship history, netting ten medals during her illustrious career. Since retiring from gymnastics, Alicia has gone on to start a family and welcomed her second daughter in July 2018. Alicia also collaborated with Sam to launch The Gympire, a fitness company with the mission of encouraging, motivating, and inspiring people to live a happy and healthy life.

In this episode, Sam and Alicia recall their memories from the 2007 World Championships and 2008 Olympic games. They discuss the peaks and valleys they encountered along the way to becoming Olympic medalists, including injuries and other roadblocks. Alicia and Sam reminisce over Sam’s infamous journal, as they look back on their friendship. Finally, Alicia discusses the current culture of gymnastics and what can be done to change the negative stigma the sport has been labeled with in recent years

]]>Sam welcomes to the podcast former Olympic teammate and close friend, Alicia Sacramone Quinn. Alicia is a former American gymnast who is also the second-most decorated American gymnast in World Championship history, netting ten medals during her illustrious career. Since retiring from gymnastics, Alicia has gone on to start a family and welcomed her second daughter in July 2018. Alicia also collaborated with Sam to launch The Gympire, a fitness company with the mission of encouraging, motivating, and inspiring people to live a happy and healthy life.

In this episode, Sam and Alicia recall their memories from the 2007 World Championships and 2008 Olympic games. They discuss the peaks and valleys they encountered along the way to becoming Olympic medalists, including injuries and other roadblocks. Alicia and Sam reminisce over Sam’s infamous journal, as they look back on their friendship. Finally, Alicia discusses the current culture of gymnastics and what can be done to change the negative stigma the sport has been labeled with in recent years

]]>01:09:24noSam welcomes to the podcast former Olympic teammate and close friend, Alicia Sacramone Quinn. Alicia is a former American gymnast who is also the second-most decorated American gymnast in World Championship history, netting ten medals during her illustrious career. Since retiring from gymnastics, Alicia has gone on to start a family and welcomed her second daughter in July 2018. 114fullAlicia Sacramone Quinn013 - Recapping Season 1Recapping Season 1Wed, 29 Aug 2018 07:15:00 +0000In the Season 1 recap episode, Sam reflects on all of her “cool friends” and the lessons she learned while having them on as guests. Sam divulges the goal of her podcast, which is to educate and inspire while covering topics related to gymnastics.

Sam travels quite a bit and she noticed that no matter where she went, people always asked her for advice, tips, training plans and strategies for gymnastics. This thirst for knowledge in the gymnastics world led her to start I Have Cool Friends, which now has over 56,000 downloads in over 108 countries! From life lessons with Valorie Kondos and Laurie Hernandez to the evolution of gymnastics with Betty Okino, there’s a little bit of everything for listeners who love the sport and those who just want to learn more.

]]>In the Season 1 recap episode, Sam reflects on all of her “cool friends” and the lessons she learned while having them on as guests. Sam divulges the goal of her podcast, which is to educate and inspire while covering topics related to gymnastics.

Sam travels quite a bit and she noticed that no matter where she went, people always asked her for advice, tips, training plans and strategies for gymnastics. This thirst for knowledge in the gymnastics world led her to start I Have Cool Friends, which now has over 56,000 downloads in over 108 countries! From life lessons with Valorie Kondos and Laurie Hernandez to the evolution of gymnastics with Betty Okino, there’s a little bit of everything for listeners who love the sport and those who just want to learn more.

]]>22:44noIn the Season 1 recap episode, Sam reflects on all of her “cool friends” and the lessons she learned while having them on as guests. Sam divulges the goal of her podcast, which is to educate and inspire while covering topics related to gymnastics. 113fullSamantha Peszek012 Shawn Johnson - The Journey to the Olympics, Our Friendship, and Our Lives NowThe Journey to the Olympics, Our Friendship, and Our Lives Now with Shawn Johnson Wed, 22 Aug 2018 07:15:00 +0000Sam welcomes to the podcast former Olympic teammate and close friend, Shawn Johnson. Shawn is a former American gymnast who won a gold medal for the balance beam and silver in team, all-around, and floor exercise at the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing. Since then, Shawn has written three books, launched a successful YouTube channel, spearheaded a health and fitness project (FYT) and won Dancing with the Stars! After suffering a torn ACL in a skiing accident, Shawn attempted a gymnastics comeback before ultimately deciding to retire in 2012.

In this episode, Shawn chronicles her gymnastics career, covering topics such as self-doubt, respect, pressures of competition and her life after. Shawn and Sam reminisce about their past competitions, their strict yet supportive coaches, and the rigors of Olympic life. Of course, there was plenty of fun to be had too, as Shawn regales stories of sleepovers, Nutella and pizza boxes. Among these stories of gymnast hijinks, Sam and Shawn discuss the quirkiness of being a gymnast and answer the question, “Are gymnasts normal?”

]]>Sam welcomes to the podcast former Olympic teammate and close friend, Shawn Johnson. Shawn is a former American gymnast who won a gold medal for the balance beam and silver in team, all-around, and floor exercise at the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing. Since then, Shawn has written three books, launched a successful YouTube channel, spearheaded a health and fitness project (FYT) and won Dancing with the Stars! After suffering a torn ACL in a skiing accident, Shawn attempted a gymnastics comeback before ultimately deciding to retire in 2012.

In this episode, Shawn chronicles her gymnastics career, covering topics such as self-doubt, respect, pressures of competition and her life after. Shawn and Sam reminisce about their past competitions, their strict yet supportive coaches, and the rigors of Olympic life. Of course, there was plenty of fun to be had too, as Shawn regales stories of sleepovers, Nutella and pizza boxes. Among these stories of gymnast hijinks, Sam and Shawn discuss the quirkiness of being a gymnast and answer the question, “Are gymnasts normal?”

]]>01:05:16noIn this episode, Shawn chronicles her gymnastics career, covering topics such as self-doubt, respect, pressures of competition and her life after. Shawn and Sam reminisce about their past competitions, their strict yet supportive coaches, and the rigors of Olympic life. Of course, there was plenty of fun to be had too, as Shawn regales stories of sleepovers, Nutella and pizza boxes. 112fullShawn Johnson 011 Amanda Borden - Confidence, the Olympics, and Being a Gym MomConfidence, the Olympics, and Being a Gym Mom with Amanda BordenThu, 16 Aug 2018 07:15:00 +0000Amanda Borden is a retired American gymnast, Olympian, coach, gym owner, and gym mom to three kids. After being coached by Mary Lee Tracy, Amanda was the captain of the gold medal winning team, the Magnificent Seven, in the 1996 Summer Olympic Games, a team medalist at the World Championships, and a multiple-medalist at the 1995 Pan American games. She graduated summa cum laude from Arizona State University with a degree in childhood education. Currently, Amanda and her husband, Brad Cochran, own Gold Medal Gym in Arizona.

In this episode, Amanda redefines what it means to be a “gym mom” and advises on how to not be an overbearing parent. She explains how to find the balance between being a coach and a parent, and also offers some tips for parents of athletes, such as why you should let your children find out what they love, and why you should let your kid lead the conversation. Parents should be teaching their kids to “own it” - to take ownership of their actions so they can learn. Amanda speaks about her own experience growing up and training as a gymnast, the importance of having self-esteem as a gymnast, and why sometimes it’s necessary to fake it until you make it - but also believe in yourself.

]]>Amanda Borden is a retired American gymnast, Olympian, coach, gym owner, and gym mom to three kids. After being coached by Mary Lee Tracy, Amanda was the captain of the gold medal winning team, the Magnificent Seven, in the 1996 Summer Olympic Games, a team medalist at the World Championships, and a multiple-medalist at the 1995 Pan American games. She graduated summa cum laude from Arizona State University with a degree in childhood education. Currently, Amanda and her husband, Brad Cochran, own Gold Medal Gym in Arizona.

In this episode, Amanda redefines what it means to be a “gym mom” and advises on how to not be an overbearing parent. She explains how to find the balance between being a coach and a parent, and also offers some tips for parents of athletes, such as why you should let your children find out what they love, and why you should let your kid lead the conversation. Parents should be teaching their kids to “own it” - to take ownership of their actions so they can learn. Amanda speaks about her own experience growing up and training as a gymnast, the importance of having self-esteem as a gymnast, and why sometimes it’s necessary to fake it until you make it - but also believe in yourself.

]]>54:18noAmanda Borden is a retired American gymnast, Olympian, coach, gym owner, and gym mom to three kids. After being coached by Mary Lee Tracy, Amanda was the captain of the gold medal winning team, the Magnificent Seven, in the 1996 Summer Olympic Games, a team medalist at the World Championships, and a multiple-medalist at the 1995 Pan American games. She graduated summa cum laude from Arizona State University with a degree in childhood education. 111fullAmanda Borden010 Betty Okino - Redefining Success and the Future of GymnasticsRedefining Success and the Future of Gymnastics with Betty Okino Wed, 08 Aug 2018 07:15:00 +0000Betty Okino is a former American artistic gymnast and Olympic medalist who was born in Uganda to a Ugandan father and a Romanian mother. As a result, she is fluent in Romanian. Growing up, she trained with Márta and Béla Károlyi in Houston. She was part of the 1992 bronze-winning Olympic team, which was also the first ever team medal at the Olympic Games for USA Gymnastics. In addition, Betty won a silver medal with her team in the 1991 World Championships and a bronze medal on the balance beam. Betty also won a gold medal on beam and a silver all-around medal at the 1990 US National Championships.

In this episode, Betty looks back on her career and injuries and states that she believes everything happens for a reason. She states that even though her injuries were the biggest obstacles she faced as a gymnast, recovering from them have made her a stronger person. Betty also speaks of what she did after retiring as a gymnast and speaks of her goals in her peak training camps. She describes what makes a good coach and explains the work ethic and humility needed to be a leader. Bella expresses her views on the evolution of USA Gymnastics throughout the years since her involvement from the 1980s and speaks about the beauty of gymnasts coming together through the years has made them stronger.

]]>Betty Okino is a former American artistic gymnast and Olympic medalist who was born in Uganda to a Ugandan father and a Romanian mother. As a result, she is fluent in Romanian. Growing up, she trained with Márta and Béla Károlyi in Houston. She was part of the 1992 bronze-winning Olympic team, which was also the first ever team medal at the Olympic Games for USA Gymnastics. In addition, Betty won a silver medal with her team in the 1991 World Championships and a bronze medal on the balance beam. Betty also won a gold medal on beam and a silver all-around medal at the 1990 US National Championships.

In this episode, Betty looks back on her career and injuries and states that she believes everything happens for a reason. She states that even though her injuries were the biggest obstacles she faced as a gymnast, recovering from them have made her a stronger person. Betty also speaks of what she did after retiring as a gymnast and speaks of her goals in her peak training camps. She describes what makes a good coach and explains the work ethic and humility needed to be a leader. Bella expresses her views on the evolution of USA Gymnastics throughout the years since her involvement from the 1980s and speaks about the beauty of gymnasts coming together through the years has made them stronger.

]]>01:02:14noBetty Okino is a former American artistic gymnast and Olympic medalist who was born in Uganda to a Ugandan father and a Romanian mother. As a result, she is fluent in Romanian. Growing up, she trained with Marta and Béla Károlyi in Houston. She was part of the 1992 bronze-winning Olympic team, which was also the first ever team medal at the Olympic Games for USA Gymnastics. In addition, Betty won a silver medal with her team in the 1991 World Championships and a bronze medal on the balance beam. 110fullBetty Okino009 Jordyn Wieber - Achieving a Utopian Gymnastics WorldAchieving a Utopian Gymnastics World with Jordyn WieberWed, 01 Aug 2018 07:15:00 +0000Jordyn Wieber is a former American artistic gymnast and was a member of the US Women’s Gymnastics Team, the Fierce Five. Some of her achievements include being a 2012 Olympic gold medalist, 2011 World Champion, three-time American Cup champion, and two-time US National All-around champion. At a young age, after her parents noticed she was a muscular child, they decided to enroll her in gymnastics and she has continued with the sport ever since. She currently works as a volunteer gymnastics assistant coach at UCLA. In 2018, Jordyn as well as over 200 other survivors were awarded the Arthur Ashe Courage Award at the ESPY’s.

In this episode, Jordyn speaks about her beginnings as a gymnast and how she was always mature, even as a child. Jordyn also speaks about what it was like being Sam’s roommate for a year! She explains her fear of being late to practice and her need for an outlet for competitiveness, as well as her interest in psychology and how she believes the Enneagram test can help athletes understand their and their teammates’ personalities more. Jordyn continuously strives to make gymnastics a safe sport by dismantling the win-at-all-costs mentality to give athletes better opportunities to be successful safely.

]]>Jordyn Wieber is a former American artistic gymnast and was a member of the US Women’s Gymnastics Team, the Fierce Five. Some of her achievements include being a 2012 Olympic gold medalist, 2011 World Champion, three-time American Cup champion, and two-time US National All-around champion. At a young age, after her parents noticed she was a muscular child, they decided to enroll her in gymnastics and she has continued with the sport ever since. She currently works as a volunteer gymnastics assistant coach at UCLA. In 2018, Jordyn as well as over 200 other survivors were awarded the Arthur Ashe Courage Award at the ESPY’s.

In this episode, Jordyn speaks about her beginnings as a gymnast and how she was always mature, even as a child. Jordyn also speaks about what it was like being Sam’s roommate for a year! She explains her fear of being late to practice and her need for an outlet for competitiveness, as well as her interest in psychology and how she believes the Enneagram test can help athletes understand their and their teammates’ personalities more. Jordyn continuously strives to make gymnastics a safe sport by dismantling the win-at-all-costs mentality to give athletes better opportunities to be successful safely.

]]>01:01:39noJordyn Wieber is a former American artistic gymnast and was a member of the US Women’s Gymnastics Team, the Fierce Five. Some of her achievements include being a 2012 Olympic gold medalist, 2011 World Champion, three-time American Cup champion, and two-time US National All-around champion. At a young age, after her parents noticed she was a muscular child, they decided to enroll her in gymnastics and she has continued with the sport ever since. 19fullJordyn Wieber008 Brandon Wynn - Fitness Begins with a Bulletproof MindsetFitness Begins with a Bulletproof MindsetWed, 25 Jul 2018 07:15:00 +0000Brandon Wynn is an artistic gymnast from New Jersey. He is a member of the US World and National Team and competed in gymnastics for The Ohio State University. At the 2013 World Artistic Gymnastics Championships, Brandon won a Bronze medal on Still Rings and is one of the two men in US history to win an individual medal in Still Rings. He even got to be on the cover of one of the world’s largest fitness magazines, Muscle and Fitness. Currently, Brandon mentors other gymnasts and athletes on how to create and maintain a healthy diet to attain physical and professional success.

In this episode, as the first male guest on the show, Brandon speaks about the differences in what male and female gymnasts need for conditioning. He also speaks about accomplishing your goals by attaching those goals to your everyday actions and giving yourself a purpose to manifest motivation. He stresses the importance of setting non-negotiables to help transform yourself into the best you can be because you are a product of what you're trying to do. Brandon discusses finding the perfect balance of muscle for athletes, how he sets his morning routine by making appointments with himself, and even offers healthy dietary advice by using food and nutrition as an asset to help you get in shape.

]]>Brandon Wynn is an artistic gymnast from New Jersey. He is a member of the US World and National Team and competed in gymnastics for The Ohio State University. At the 2013 World Artistic Gymnastics Championships, Brandon won a Bronze medal on Still Rings and is one of the two men in US history to win an individual medal in Still Rings. He even got to be on the cover of one of the world’s largest fitness magazines, Muscle and Fitness. Currently, Brandon mentors other gymnasts and athletes on how to create and maintain a healthy diet to attain physical and professional success.

In this episode, as the first male guest on the show, Brandon speaks about the differences in what male and female gymnasts need for conditioning. He also speaks about accomplishing your goals by attaching those goals to your everyday actions and giving yourself a purpose to manifest motivation. He stresses the importance of setting non-negotiables to help transform yourself into the best you can be because you are a product of what you're trying to do. Brandon discusses finding the perfect balance of muscle for athletes, how he sets his morning routine by making appointments with himself, and even offers healthy dietary advice by using food and nutrition as an asset to help you get in shape.

]]>52:46noBrandon Wynn is an artistic gymnast from New Jersey. He is a member of the US World and National Team and competed in gymnastics for The Ohio State University. At the 2013 World Artistic Gymnastics Championships, Brandon won a Bronze medal on Still Rings and is one of the two men in US history to win an individual medal in Still Rings. He even got to be on the cover of one of the world’s largest fitness magazines, Muscle and Fitness. 18fullBrandon Wynn007 Laurie Hernandez - Human vs PerfectHuman vs Perfect with Laurie HernandezWed, 18 Jul 2018 07:15:00 +0000Laurie Hernandez is a 2016 Olympic gold medalist who has also won an Olympic silver medal on beam, won season 23 of Dancing with the Stars, was featured on an episode of Stuck in the Middle, and is only 18 years old. At 16, Laurie became the youngest winner of Dancing with the Stars. She has also made appearances on Sesame Street, Celebrity Family Feud, and will be co-hosting American Ninja Warrior Junior. In addition, Laurie is a New York Times Best-Selling Author of her book, I Got This: To Gold and Beyond. After competing in the Olympics, Laurie made the decision to become a professional athlete.

In this episode, Laurie speaks about identity, finding who you are as a person, and allowing yourself to feel different emotions as a human being. She notes that it’s okay to not always have to keep a bubbly facade and it’s important to embrace your true feelings. Laurie explains how she overcame her injuries, came back stronger, and even details why she almost quit the Olympics five months prior to the competition due to an injury. To Laurie, the most important key to overcome mental blocks is communication and communication is a factor Laurie looks for in all aspects of life.

]]>Laurie Hernandez is a 2016 Olympic gold medalist who has also won an Olympic silver medal on beam, won season 23 of Dancing with the Stars, was featured on an episode of Stuck in the Middle, and is only 18 years old. At 16, Laurie became the youngest winner of Dancing with the Stars. She has also made appearances on Sesame Street, Celebrity Family Feud, and will be co-hosting American Ninja Warrior Junior. In addition, Laurie is a New York Times Best-Selling Author of her book, I Got This: To Gold and Beyond. After competing in the Olympics, Laurie made the decision to become a professional athlete.

In this episode, Laurie speaks about identity, finding who you are as a person, and allowing yourself to feel different emotions as a human being. She notes that it’s okay to not always have to keep a bubbly facade and it’s important to embrace your true feelings. Laurie explains how she overcame her injuries, came back stronger, and even details why she almost quit the Olympics five months prior to the competition due to an injury. To Laurie, the most important key to overcome mental blocks is communication and communication is a factor Laurie looks for in all aspects of life.

]]>01:05:16noLaurie Hernandez is a 2016 Olympic gold medalist who has also won an Olympic silver medal on beam, won season 23 of Dancing with the Stars, was featured on an episode of Stuck in the Middle, and is only 18 years old. At 16, Laurie became the youngest winner of Dancing with the Stars. She has also made appearances on Sesame Street, Celebrity Family Feud, and will be co-hosting American Ninja Warrior Junior. 17fullLaurie Hernandez006 Nicole Jontony - How Gymnasts Can Build a Healthy Relationship with FoodHow Gymnasts Can Build a Healthy Relationship with FoodWed, 11 Jul 2018 07:15:00 +0000Nicole Jontony was a former elite collegiate gymnast at Ohio State, has helped her team make it to the NCAA championships during her senior year, and is currently a sports dietitian at The Ohio State University. Recently, Nicole was selected as the 2018 Young Dietitian of the Year by the Ohio Academy of Nutrition Dietetics. She graduated from Ohio State in 2013 with a degree in Medical Dietetics and has dedicated herself to helping athletes develop healthier eating habits and learn more about sports nutrition ever since. Alongside her husband, Nicole runs a sports performance practice that specializes in sports counseling and sports nutrition.

In this episode, Nicole emphasizes that there's no such thing as a good food or a bad food, rather, people should be looking at food as fuel. She works to de-stigmatize food in order to help develop healthy habits for athletes. She mentions gymnasts should be having protein as a filling food to prevent binging or cravings and how increasing fruits and vegetables in your diet to get more vitamins and minerals can help you heal from an injury. Nicole lists several healthy eating tips such as fueling your energy using carbohydrates, using your hands to give yourself the right portion sizes, and enjoying food that makes you feel full!

]]>Nicole Jontony was a former elite collegiate gymnast at Ohio State, has helped her team make it to the NCAA championships during her senior year, and is currently a sports dietitian at The Ohio State University. Recently, Nicole was selected as the 2018 Young Dietitian of the Year by the Ohio Academy of Nutrition Dietetics. She graduated from Ohio State in 2013 with a degree in Medical Dietetics and has dedicated herself to helping athletes develop healthier eating habits and learn more about sports nutrition ever since. Alongside her husband, Nicole runs a sports performance practice that specializes in sports counseling and sports nutrition.

In this episode, Nicole emphasizes that there's no such thing as a good food or a bad food, rather, people should be looking at food as fuel. She works to de-stigmatize food in order to help develop healthy habits for athletes. She mentions gymnasts should be having protein as a filling food to prevent binging or cravings and how increasing fruits and vegetables in your diet to get more vitamins and minerals can help you heal from an injury. Nicole lists several healthy eating tips such as fueling your energy using carbohydrates, using your hands to give yourself the right portion sizes, and enjoying food that makes you feel full!

]]>01:08:57noNicole Jontony was a former elite collegiate gymnast at Ohio State, has helped her team make it to the NCAA championships during her senior year, and is currently a sports dietitian at The Ohio State University. Recently, Nicole was selected as the 2018 Young Dietitian of the Year by the Ohio Academy of Nutrition Dietetics. 16fullNicole Jontony 005 Dr. Alison Arnold - Fighting FearFighting Fear with Dr. Alison ArnoldWed, 04 Jul 2018 15:51:25 +0000Alison Arnold, also known as “Doc Ali” in the gymnastics world, has a more than interesting resume. She has a PhD in Psychology, is a former gymnast, and has been on trips to a monastery in Nepal, Peru, and Thailand, as well as in the jungle of the Amazon with a shaman. She has also been a mental toughness coach for USA Gymnastics since 1997. Doc Ali has worked with Olympic medalists, NCAA champions, and thousands of athletes to help achieve their dreams for the past 25 years. Using all she has learned from her life experiences, she works to help people toughen their minds and fight their fears to achieve ultimate success.

In this episode, we discuss how all gymnasts, even the elites, have fears and how you can train yourself to overcome your own personal fears. Doc Ali states some people are “fire” gymnasts and some people are “water” gymnasts—some people like pressure, some people like performing, or some people like competing; no one is exactly the same. We establish that there is no one specific way to do things; you need to figure out whatever works best for you and use it as a tool to help get better. However, having gratitude for fears and struggles makes you a stronger gymnast, once you appreciate what you have and what you’ve been through. In addition, Doc Ali speaks of her experience sitting in silence for two weeks in a monastery in Thailand.

]]>Alison Arnold, also known as “Doc Ali” in the gymnastics world, has a more than interesting resume. She has a PhD in Psychology, is a former gymnast, and has been on trips to a monastery in Nepal, Peru, and Thailand, as well as in the jungle of the Amazon with a shaman. She has also been a mental toughness coach for USA Gymnastics since 1997. Doc Ali has worked with Olympic medalists, NCAA champions, and thousands of athletes to help achieve their dreams for the past 25 years. Using all she has learned from her life experiences, she works to help people toughen their minds and fight their fears to achieve ultimate success.

In this episode, we discuss how all gymnasts, even the elites, have fears and how you can train yourself to overcome your own personal fears. Doc Ali states some people are “fire” gymnasts and some people are “water” gymnasts—some people like pressure, some people like performing, or some people like competing; no one is exactly the same. We establish that there is no one specific way to do things; you need to figure out whatever works best for you and use it as a tool to help get better. However, having gratitude for fears and struggles makes you a stronger gymnast, once you appreciate what you have and what you’ve been through. In addition, Doc Ali speaks of her experience sitting in silence for two weeks in a monastery in Thailand.

]]>39:06noAlison Arnold, also known as “Doc Ali” in the gymnastics world, has a more than interesting resume. She has a PhD in Psychology, is a former gymnast, and has been on trips to a monastery in Nepal, Peru, and Thailand, as well as in the jungle of the Amazon with a shaman. She has also been a mental toughness coach for USA Gymnastics since 1997. Doc Ali has worked with Olympic medalists, NCAA champions, and thousands of athletes to help achieve their dreams for the past 25 years. 15fullDr. Alison Arnold004 Madison Kocian - Gold Medal Winning Olympian, Madison Kocian, Sets the Bar High for GymnasticsGold Medal Winning Olympian, Madison Kocian, Sets the Bar High for GymnasticsWed, 27 Jun 2018 07:43:09 +0000Madison Kocian’s reputation precedes her—her numerous accolades are just a representation of her hard-working, determined, and accomplished self. Some of her awards include winning the team gold medal with the “Final Five” and the uneven bars silver medal at the 2016 Olympic Games, becoming the 2015 world champion on bars, and being a member of the UCLA gymnastics team. Towards the end of the season, Madison came back from shoulder surgery and was still able to help her team win the NCAA championship title this year.

In this episode, Madison speaks about her gymnastics career both in the elite world and in the college world, where she competes for UCLA. She speaks about her experience training for the Olympics and how she learned to overcome her injuries and what she did to become a better gymnast, physically and mentally. Aside from gymnastics, Madison mentions how she is able to live, or at least tries to live, a normal life. In addition, Madison shares some advice for listeners on how to succeed as gymnasts as she looks back on her elite career.

]]>Madison Kocian’s reputation precedes her—her numerous accolades are just a representation of her hard-working, determined, and accomplished self. Some of her awards include winning the team gold medal with the “Final Five” and the uneven bars silver medal at the 2016 Olympic Games, becoming the 2015 world champion on bars, and being a member of the UCLA gymnastics team. Towards the end of the season, Madison came back from shoulder surgery and was still able to help her team win the NCAA championship title this year.

In this episode, Madison speaks about her gymnastics career both in the elite world and in the college world, where she competes for UCLA. She speaks about her experience training for the Olympics and how she learned to overcome her injuries and what she did to become a better gymnast, physically and mentally. Aside from gymnastics, Madison mentions how she is able to live, or at least tries to live, a normal life. In addition, Madison shares some advice for listeners on how to succeed as gymnasts as she looks back on her elite career.

]]>57:33noMadison Kocian’s reputation precedes her—her numerous accolades are just a representation of her hard-working, determined, and accomplished self. Some of her awards include winning the team gold medal with the “Final Five” and the uneven bars silver medal at the 2016 Olympic Games, becoming the 2015 world champion on bars, and being a member of the UCLA gymnastics team. 14fullMadison Kocian003 Jill Hicks - The Ins and Outs of College RecruitingThe Ins and Outs of College Recruiting with Jill HicksWed, 20 Jun 2018 07:12:07 +0000Jill Hicks, known as the “College Recruiting Expert” tells us in this episode about her journey with college gymnastics as well as some advice for parents, coaches, and aspiring young gymnasts. Over time, the college recruiting process for gymnastics has drastically changed. Jill’s consulting company, Jill Hicks Consulting LLC, strives to market her support for college-bound gymnastics to choose what the best fit is for them. Jill reiterates that passion and love for the sport are key to being a successful college gymnast, no matter what division. She also states that having a support system leads to girls to become more confident, which makes the college recruitment process easier to go through.

]]>Jill Hicks, known as the “College Recruiting Expert” tells us in this episode about her journey with college gymnastics as well as some advice for parents, coaches, and aspiring young gymnasts. Over time, the college recruiting process for gymnastics has drastically changed. Jill’s consulting company, Jill Hicks Consulting LLC, strives to market her support for college-bound gymnastics to choose what the best fit is for them. Jill reiterates that passion and love for the sport are key to being a successful college gymnast, no matter what division. She also states that having a support system leads to girls to become more confident, which makes the college recruitment process easier to go through.

]]>49:59noJill Hicks, known as the “College Recruiting Expert” tells us in this episode about her journey with college gymnastics as well as some advice for parents, coaches, and aspiring young gymnasts. Over time, the college recruiting process for gymnastics has drastically changed. Jill’s consulting company, Jill Hicks Consulting LLC, strives to market her support for college-bound gymnastics to choose what the best fit is for them.13fullJill Hicks002 Valorie Kondos-Field - Miss Val: An Unconventional CoachMiss Val: An Unconventional CoachWed, 13 Jun 2018 12:04:04 +0000Sam has had some amazing people help her in her journey to becoming a top gymnast, but one of the most important has to be Valorie Kondos-Field, otherwise known as Miss Val. As coach at UCLA, she led them to win 7 national championships. Her book, Life is Short, Don’t Wait to Dance, will be available for purchase September 2018. In this episode, Sam and Val discuss how they met, Val’s unorthodox coaching style, and the Larry Nassar scandal.

]]>Sam has had some amazing people help her in her journey to becoming a top gymnast, but one of the most important has to be Valorie Kondos-Field, otherwise known as Miss Val. As coach at UCLA, she led them to win 7 national championships. Her book, Life is Short, Don’t Wait to Dance, will be available for purchase September 2018. In this episode, Sam and Val discuss how they met, Val’s unorthodox coaching style, and the Larry Nassar scandal.

]]>01:00:11noSam has had some amazing people help her in her journey to becoming a top gymnast, but one of the most important has to be Valorie Kondos-Field, otherwise known as Miss Val. As coach at UCLA, she led them to win 7 national championships. Her book, Life is Short, Don’t Wait to Dance, will be available for purchase September 2018. In this episode, Sam and Val discuss how they met, Val’s unorthodox coaching style, and the Larry Nassar scandal.12fullValorie Kondos-Field001 Mary Lee Tracy - How To Reach Your Athletic PeakHow To Reach Your Athletic Peak Wed, 06 Jun 2018 07:14:43 +0000If you aspire to be fantastic gymnast like Samantha Peszek, you need an equally great coach. In this episode, Sam welcomes Mary Lee Tracy, a coach who has taught gymnastic legends such as Jaycie Phelps, Amanda Borden, and Amelia Hundley. Mary discusses confidence, what makes a great coach, and how to be a 24-hour athlete.

]]>If you aspire to be fantastic gymnast like Samantha Peszek, you need an equally great coach. In this episode, Sam welcomes Mary Lee Tracy, a coach who has taught gymnastic legends such as Jaycie Phelps, Amanda Borden, and Amelia Hundley. Mary discusses confidence, what makes a great coach, and how to be a 24-hour athlete.

]]>48:10noIf you aspire to be fantastic gymnast like Samantha Peszek, you need an equally great coach. In this episode, Sam welcomes Mary Lee Tracy, a coach who has taught gymnastic legends such as Jaycie Phelps, Amanda Borden, and Amelia Hundley. Mary discusses confidence, what makes a great coach, and how to be a 24-hour athlete.11fullMary Lee TracyWelcome to I Have Cool FriendsWelcome to I Have Cool FriendsTue, 29 May 2018 04:00:00 +0000Samantha Peszek is on a mission to connect athletes, coaches, and parents with the best resources the gymnastics world has to offer. Utilizing Samantha’s gymnastics network, (she really does have cool friends) guests will be experts in their field and shed a light on hot topics, tips for improvement, and inspiration. Listeners will have the opportunity to learn from some of the sport’s greats, participate in giveaways, and apply relevant tips to everyday life, in and out of the gym.

]]>Samantha Peszek is on a mission to connect athletes, coaches, and parents with the best resources the gymnastics world has to offer. Utilizing Samantha’s gymnastics network, (she really does have cool friends) guests will be experts in their field and shed a light on hot topics, tips for improvement, and inspiration. Listeners will have the opportunity to learn from some of the sport’s greats, participate in giveaways, and apply relevant tips to everyday life, in and out of the gym.

]]>04:56noathlete,athletics,inspiration,sports,parents,queen,college,nutrition,beam,gymnastics,ncaa,motivation,olympics,recruiting,motivate,gymnast,psychologist,coaches,inspire,bqbcSamantha Peszek is on a mission to connect athletes, coaches, and parents with the best resources the gymnastics world has to offer. Utilizing Samantha’s gymnastics network (she really does have cool friends), guests will be experts in their field and shed a light on hot topics, tips for improvement, and inspiration. Listeners will have the opportunity to learn from some of the sport’s greats, participate in giveaways, and apply relevant tips to everyday life, in and out of the gym.1trailerSamantha Peszek